Photocatalytic Environmental Purification Technology - March 2004

Photocatalytic Environmental Purification Technology - March 2004

The photocatalytic technology developed by the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) Kyushu Center uses titanium dioxide (TiO2) and is applied to the purification of liquids and gases, particularly in water treatment and air purification. This technology employs microscale hollow glass spheres coated with titanium dioxide and ceramic materials to efficiently break down harmful substances such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx).

For example, a factory in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, has introduced a wastewater purification system using photocatalytic technology, capable of treating approximately 5,000 cubic meters of wastewater per day. Additionally, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has developed an air pollution control system using this technology, successfully reducing VOC emissions from factory exhaust gases by over 90%.

This technology utilizes ultraviolet light to activate chemical reactions on the surface of titanium dioxide, converting VOCs and NOx into harmless carbon dioxide and water. Since it consumes little energy and does not require chemical agents, it is also being adopted for air pollution control in urban areas such as Tokyo and Osaka. Photocatalytic technology is gaining popularity as a low-cost, environmentally friendly solution, and its further expansion is anticipated in the future.